Amnesty International has called on Indian authorities to take swift action to address the ongoing ethnic violence in the northeastern state of Manipur, following the resignation of Chief Minister N. Biren Singh. The human rights organization highlighted that Singh’s departure presents a critical opportunity for the government to break the cycle of violence and impunity that has gripped the region for nearly two years.
In a statement issued Tuesday, Aakar Patel, Chair of Amnesty International India, criticized the state and central government for their failure to curb violence and ensure accountability. “The BJP-led governments have failed to address the humanitarian crisis in Manipur, where over 250 people have died and more than 60,000 have been displaced since May 2023,” Patel said. “The ongoing violence continues to devastate communities, destroy property, and fuel terror, while vigilante groups act with impunity.”
Ethnic clashes between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities have torn the region apart, with widespread destruction of villages, businesses, and religious sites. Vigilante groups, such as Arambai Tenggol, have been implicated in serious human rights violations, including sexual violence, abductions, and extrajudicial killings. Despite this, law enforcement has largely turned a blind eye, and many victims have been denied the right to report crimes, further deepening the crisis.
The resignation of Singh, following political pressure and allegations of involvement in instigating violence, raises questions about the future of leadership in the state. Yet Amnesty International remains concerned about the lack of substantial action from the government. Without meaningful efforts to hold perpetrators accountable and restore law and order, the violence risks spiraling further out of control.
As Manipur enters a period of transition, human rights organizations are urging authorities to prioritize reconciliation and justice. “It is essential that the government prosecutes those responsible for the violence, restores order, and ensures the protection of all communities,” Patel concluded, emphasizing that a commitment to human rights and accountability is crucial to ending the violence and preventing future atrocities.
